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Get answers instantly from our AI assistant, browse FAQs, or reach out to a real human. We're here either way.
Ask Zedd
AI Support Assistant
Zedd can answer most questions instantly — how to read your report, what assessments mean, account issues, payment questions, and more. Available 24/7.
Typical response: Instant
Talk to a Human
Real people, real answers
For complex issues, refund requests, or when you just want to talk to a person — we get it. We're a small team and we read every email personally.
Typical response: Within 2 business days
Talk to a Human
Yes, that's a real email that goes to a real person. We're not hiding behind a chatbot — we're just honest that a human response takes longer than an AI one.
We're Real People
GougeAlert is built by a small team who believes homeowners deserve pricing transparency. We use AI because it lets us deliver better analysis faster — not because we're trying to replace human judgment. When you use the Talk to a Human button, you're reaching the people who built this product and care about getting it right. We may be slower than Zedd, but we're listening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find your answer? Ask Zedd or use Talk to a Human.
Getting Started
How does GougeAlert work?
Upload your contractor quote (PDF, photo, or manual entry), and our AI analyzes every line item against current market data for your specific location. We use real-time pricing research to compare what you're being charged against what similar work actually costs in your area. You get a detailed report showing fair price ranges, potential overcharges, and negotiation recommendations.
What types of quotes can you analyze?
We support any home improvement or renovation quote — kitchen remodels, bathroom renovations, roofing, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, painting, flooring, deck construction, and more. If a contractor gave you a quote with line items and prices, we can analyze it.
How accurate are the fair price ranges?
Our AI researches current market rates using real-time data for your specific location. Fair ranges reflect actual costs reported by contractors, material suppliers, and industry databases in your area. As with any estimate, actual prices can vary based on project specifics, contractor experience, and material choices — but our ranges give you a strong baseline for negotiation.
Do I need to create an account?
Yes — a free account lets you save your reports, access them anytime, and download PDFs. We don't sell your data or send you contractor referrals. Your account exists purely so you can access your reports.
Pricing & Payments
How much does an analysis cost?
Each quote analysis is a one-time payment of $9.99. No subscriptions, no hidden fees. You get the full report with line-by-line analysis, fair price ranges, and a downloadable PDF.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and Apple Pay / Google Pay through our secure payment partner, Stripe. We never see or store your card details.
Can I get a refund?
Yes. We offer a 100% money-back guarantee within 7 days of purchase, no questions asked. If your report did not help, use Talk to a Human on the Support page or email support@gougealert.com with your report ID and we'll issue a full refund.
Do you have promo codes?
We occasionally offer promotional codes through our newsletter and launch campaigns. Enter your code on the Quote Details page (Step 2) before submitting for payment.
Understanding Your Report
What does "Possible Gouge" mean?
This flag means a line item is priced significantly above the fair market range for your area — typically 35%+ over what similar work costs. It doesn't necessarily mean the contractor is dishonest; it could reflect premium materials, specialized expertise, or market conditions. But it's a strong signal to ask questions and get competing quotes for that specific item.
What does "Suspiciously Low" mean?
A price flagged as suspiciously low may indicate bundled costs that will appear later as change orders, use of unlicensed subcontractors, lower-quality materials, or a bid-winning tactic. It's worth asking the contractor for a detailed breakdown of what's included at that price.
Should I fire my contractor based on this report?
No — this report is a negotiation tool, not a verdict. Most contractors price fairly on most items. Use the report to have an informed conversation: "I noticed the window installation seems high compared to market rates — can you help me understand what's included?" That approach gets better results than accusation.
Why do some items show $0?
A $0 line item usually means the cost is bundled into another item. For example, a contractor might include demolition costs in the overall kitchen remodel price rather than breaking it out separately. Our AI accounts for this in the analysis.
Privacy & Security
Do you sell my data to contractors?
Absolutely not. We will never sell your data, share your quote details with contractors, or send you contractor referrals. Our only revenue is the $9.99 analysis fee. Your trust is our business model.
Is my contractor quote data secure?
Yes. Your data is encrypted in transit (TLS) and at rest. We use Google Cloud infrastructure with enterprise-grade security. Your uploaded files are processed for analysis and stored securely for your future access only.
Can my contractor see my report?
No. Your report is private to your account. You can choose to share it (via PDF download), but we never make reports visible to anyone else.
Zedd has answers to most questions — he's a good boy and loves to help.
Zedd has answers to most questions — try asking before you go.